The death of 25-year-old Kamal Dhyani, whose body was discovered in an uncovered pit dug for Delhi Jal Board (DJB) work in west Delhi’s Janakpuri area, appears to have been accidental, according to preliminary findings from the postmortem examination.
The initial postmortem report stated that Kamal died of suffocation after mud blocked his mouth and nose. It also indicated that his chest may have been compressed by a heavy object, believed to be his motorcycle, which reportedly fell on him after he slipped into the pit. Doctors noted that the pressure on his chest likely played a major role in restricting his breathing and contributed to his death.
The postmortem also documented burn injuries on his body, especially on the right thigh. Medical experts said these burn marks were probably sustained after death and may have been caused by prolonged contact with a vehicle’s silencer.
Kamal, a resident of Kailashpuri, had left his workplace in Rohini on Wednesday night but never reached home. His body was later recovered from a pit about 15 feet deep, which was allegedly left uncovered during DJB-related work. His motorcycle was found lying near him inside the pit, and preliminary investigations suggested that he accidentally fell in and was unable to climb out.
Earlier, Delhi Police registered a case of culpable homicide at the Janakpuri police station against the contractor involved and officials of the Delhi Jal Board. The police custody of one of the accused, Rajesh Kumar Prajapati, was extended by a day, while another accused, Yogesh, was sent to judicial custody. Non-bailable warrants have also been issued against two other alleged contractors, Himanshu Gupta and Kavish Gupta.
In the aftermath of the incident, Delhi’s Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood ordered a formal inquiry to determine responsibility and to ensure steps are taken to prevent such incidents in the future. Following a preliminary probe, three DJB officials were suspended.
The case has also sparked strong political reactions. The Aam Aadmi Party accused the BJP-led administration of negligence and systemic lapses, demanding accountability for what it termed a preventable tragedy. The incident has further sharpened the political clash between the two parties over issues of governance and infrastructure safety in the national capital.
